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The Ultimate Guide to Coal and Tar Shampoo: Benefits, Side Effects, and Everything You Need to Know

For centuries, coal tar has been used as a medicinal ingredient to treat a variety of skin conditions, including psoriasis and eczema. Today, coal tar is still a common ingredient in many shampoos and other hair care products. However, it is important to be aware of the potential benefits and risks of using coal tar shampoo before you start using it.

What is coal tar shampoo?

Coal tar shampoo is a type of shampoo that contains coal tar, a thick, black substance that is produced when coal is burned. Coal tar is a complex mixture of chemicals, many of which have been shown to have therapeutic properties.

Benefits of coal tar shampoo

Coal tar shampoo has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of scalp conditions, including:

Psoriasis: Coal tar shampoo can help to reduce the scaling, itching, and inflammation associated with psoriasis.
Eczema: Coal tar shampoo can help to soothe the itching and inflammation associated with eczema.
Dandruff: Coal tar shampoo can help to control the flaking and itching associated with dandruff.

Side effects of coal tar shampoo

Coal tar shampoo is generally safe and well-tolerated, but it can cause side effects in some people. These side effects include:

Skin irritation: Coal tar shampoo can cause skin irritation, such as redness, itching, and burning.
Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to coal tar. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
Increased sun sensitivity: Coal tar shampoo can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, increasing your risk of sunburn.
Carcinogenic potential: Some studies have suggested that coal tar may be carcinogenic, meaning that it may cause cancer. However, the risk of cancer from using coal tar shampoo is very small.

How to use coal tar shampoo

Coal tar shampoo is available over-the-counter at most pharmacies. It is important to follow the directions on the package carefully.

To use coal tar shampoo:

Wet your hair and scalp.
Apply a small amount of shampoo to your scalp.
Massage the shampoo into your scalp for 5-10 minutes.
Rinse your hair thoroughly.
Repeat steps 2-4 as needed.

Tips for using coal tar shampoo

Here are some tips for using coal tar shampoo:

Start slowly. Use coal tar shampoo once or twice a week at first, and gradually increase the frequency of use as needed.
Be patient. It may take several weeks to see results from using coal tar shampoo.
Avoid getting coal tar shampoo in your eyes. If you do get coal tar shampoo in your eyes, rinse them with water immediately.
Store coal tar shampoo in a cool, dry place.

Pros and cons of coal tar shampoo

Pros:

Effective for treating psoriasis, eczema, and dandruff
Available over-the-counter
Relatively inexpensive

Cons:

Can cause side effects, such as skin irritation and allergic reactions
May make your skin more sensitive to the sun
Carcinogenic potential

FAQs

1. Is coal tar shampoo safe for long-term use?

Coal tar shampoo is generally safe for long-term use, but it is important to be aware of the potential side effects. If you experience any side effects from using coal tar shampoo, discontinue use and talk to your doctor.

2. Can I use coal tar shampoo if I have psoriasis?

Yes, coal tar shampoo can be effective for treating psoriasis. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before using coal tar shampoo if you have psoriasis.

3. Can I use coal tar shampoo if I have eczema?

Yes, coal tar shampoo can be effective for treating eczema. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before using coal tar shampoo if you have eczema.

4. Can I use coal tar shampoo if I have dandruff?

Yes, coal tar shampoo can be effective for treating dandruff. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before using coal tar shampoo if you have dandruff.

5. Can I use coal tar shampoo on my face?

No, coal tar shampoo should not be used on the face. Coal tar shampoo can be irritating to the skin on the face.

6. Can I use coal tar shampoo on children?

Coal tar shampoo is not recommended for use on children under the age of 2.

Call to action

If you are struggling with a scalp condition, such as psoriasis, eczema, or dandruff, talk to your doctor about whether coal tar shampoo may be right for you.